From uncertainty to insight: EMBRACE completes TTX in Vienna
On 18–19 March 2026, the EMBRACE project reached a key milestone with its first Tabletop Exercise (TTX), held in Vienna. Bringing together experts from public health, civil protection, CBRN, law enforcement, research and technology, the exercise created a structured environment to examine how Europe responds to complex biotoxin incidents.
Designed as a discussion-based exercise, the TTX focused on one of the most challenging dimensions of crisis management: decision-making under uncertainty. Participants were immersed in a simulated incident unfolding on a moving train, with the scenario evolving from ambiguous early signals to a multi-layered cross-sector crisis. Working with incomplete and sometimes conflicting information, they were required to interpret developments, reassess assumptions and justify their decisions in real time.
Rather than seeking predefined solutions, the exercise prioritised reasoning, transparency and reflection. Discussions explored when and how to escalate a response, how to maintain a shared situational picture and how to ensure alignment across governance levels. This approach enabled evaluators to capture valuable insights into both strengths and gaps in current practices.
A central role was played by the EMBRACE Biotoxin Task Force, which anchored discussions in scientific expertise while ensuring operational relevance. At the same time, participants engaged with key EMBRACE tools and technologies, highlighting how data, detection and decision-support systems can enhance situational awareness and coordination.
The findings from the TTX will directly inform the development of EMBRACE Concepts of Operations and support the refinement of governance frameworks for biotoxin preparedness.
Looking ahead, the project will transition from discussion to deployment with its first Field Training Exercise in November 2026 in Limoges. Together, these exercises form a progressive pathway, bridging strategy and real-world application to strengthen Europe’s resilience against biotoxin threats.